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Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings

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Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings

Description

Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender slow-cooked chicken, hearty vegetables, and soft, fluffy dumplings in a rich, creamy broth. This easy slow cooker recipe transforms simple pantry ingredients into a warm and satisfying meal with very little hands-on effort. As the chicken slowly cooks, it becomes incredibly tender while the vegetables absorb the savory flavors of the broth and herbs. The dumplings cook right on top of the stew during the final stage, becoming light, pillowy, and perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner, a comforting meal for a chilly evening, or an easy make-ahead recipe for busy weekdays, this Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings delivers homemade flavor in every spoonful. Pair it with a simple green salad or warm biscuits for a complete meal everyone will love.

Ingredients For the Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

For the Crockpot Base

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 2 tablespoons butter

For the Dumplings

  • 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into small pieces

For Garnish

  • Fresh chopped parsley
  • Black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken into the slow cooker. Add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, butter, and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and very tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir well.

Step 5: Add the Cream

Pour the heavy cream into the slow cooker and stir until fully combined. Allow the broth to heat for about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Add the Dumplings

Cut each biscuit into four small pieces. Place the dough pieces evenly over the hot chicken mixture. Gently press them slightly into the broth without stirring too much.

Step 7: Cook the Dumplings

Cover and cook on HIGH for 45–60 minutes, or until the dumplings are fully cooked, light, and fluffy. Avoid lifting the lid during this time so the dumplings can steam properly.

Step 8: Finish the Dish

Gently stir the dumplings into the creamy chicken mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.

Step 9: Serve

Ladle the chicken and dumplings into serving bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad.

Tips & Notes

  • Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for even juicier results.
  • Avoid opening the slow cooker while the dumplings are cooking, as this releases the steam needed for fluffy dumplings.
  • Frozen mixed vegetables can replace the fresh carrots and celery for convenience.
  • For a thicker broth, stir in a slurry made with 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water before adding the dumplings.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the chicken mixture ahead of time, then add and cook the dumplings just before serving for the best texture.

Q: Can I use homemade dumpling dough?
Absolutely. Homemade dumplings work wonderfully and can be dropped directly into the simmering broth.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
The chicken mixture freezes well, but it’s best to make fresh dumplings after reheating for the best texture.

Servings & Nutrition

Servings: 6

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving

  • Calories: 465
  • Protein: 34g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 760mg

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